This weekend looks set to bring a temporary reprieve from the grey and wet weather of the last two weeks with highs of 17 degrees and the chance of some blue skies.
And you know what that means – beer gardens. Remember though: unlike regular pubs, the curfew for beer gardens is 10pm. Pubs will also need to take details of all its customers for the Scottish Government’s Test and Protect system in case anyone enters tests positive for coronavirus.
While bars have been closed since the start of lockdown, on Monday, July 6 outdoor hospitality got the go-ahead to open back up meaning Glaswegians can now enjoy the summer with a pint or a cocktail.
Pubs and restaurants in Scotland are expected to fully open up on Wednesday, July 15 but if you can’t wait till then we have compiled a list of some of the top spots to grab a drink (and maybe a bite to eat too) in Glasgow – just get their fast as many are fully booked out or have limited availability.
The Ark
Popular with students for its £3 IPA deals on weekdays, The Ark is situated right across from Queen Street train station on the North Frederick Street entrance. While they remain fully booked this weekend, a member of staff said they are reserving seats for people to walk in. The kitchen will be open and there will be no time limits on visitors.
Brel
A west-end favourite, Brel is open this weekend for bookings and allocated walk-in spaces – although they say there is limited availability.
Hootenanny
The popular city-centre queued around the block when it opened on Monday and is operating a first-come-first-serve policy.
West Brewery
The east-end brewpub has been open for takeaway during lockdown but has now opened its beer garden too. Situated at Glasgow Green, bookings can be made on the German-inspired Brewery’s website
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SWG3
While it is booked out till August, Glasgow’s biggest beer garden at SWG3, Ronnie’s Bar and Bike Shop, is one to keep on your list of beer gardens to visit. They welcomed 750 people on their first day back and provide food too. Each group gets two hours and 45 minutes to enjoy their beer and grub and table service is provided through their app.
Vodka Wodka
Ashton Lane’s go-to cocktail bar is making its return this Friday and are now accepting bookings for those craving a jolly rancher or a French martini.
The Rum Shack
For those in the south side of Glasgow, The Rum Shack is open for booking for people wanting food – but not those looking for just a pint. They have limited availability this weekend.
Bavaria Brauhaus
The Bavarian beer pub in the city centre accepts bookings on its website – but has limited availability. However, walk-ins are accepted if there is space.
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The Record Factory
The bar and music venue on Byre’s Road is open for bookings this weekend. Pub-goers are to email the bar to request a spot.
Cottiers
The converted church in Hyndland will be taking bookings only this weekend with limited spots available on Friday and Saturday.
The Locale
The family-run bar and diner near Charing Cross is open for bookings and walk-ins this weekend but, again, has limited availability. You can expect craft beer and American style diner food.
Gallery Bar
The LGBT-run bar is situated in the heart of Merchant City and operates a first-come-first-serve policy.
Bier Halle
The German bar is unfortunately fully booked until next week and is not accepting walk-ins. Customers get a two-hour slot and a new limited menu.
The Amsterdam
The bar on Brunswick Street is accepting bookings by phone with limited availability. If you’re worried in case bad weather, don’t be as they recently posted on their Instagram: “The rain will not stop Glaswegians getting a bevy!!”
Chinaski’s
The Charles Bukowski celebration bar and bistro on North Street will be open on a first-come-first-serve basis this weekend.
Cathedral House
Situated next to the historic and grand Glasgow Cathedral, this boutique Inn will run a first-come-first-serve system for thirsty customers.
The Citizen
While you won’t get to fully enjoy the beautiful mid-century interior, The Citizen on Vincent Place will be open on a first-come-first-serve basis this weekend.
Cranside Kitchen
Located at the Rotunda in Finnieston, the outdoor venue is unfortunately booked out this weekend.
Mediterraneo
The Italian restaurant on Ingram Street is operating a first-come-first-serve policy for its customers.
Saint Luke's & The Winged Ox
The east-end gastro pub will be open and accepting bookings this weekend through its phone line with two-hour time slots.
The White Elephant
The “best south facing beer garden in the southside” according to its owners, the bar will be open and taking bookings this weekend – but have been inundated with calls so space is limited.
Killermont Polo Club
The Indian tapas eatery in Maryhill will be opening its doors to both walk-ins and bookings this weekend.
The Parlour
The cocktail focused west-end bar which opened its doors in 2017 will open them again this weekend for bookings only on three hour slots from its website.
The Old School House
The former school-turned bar in Finnieston may be booked out this Saturday, but pub-goers may be able to book Friday or Sunday slots.
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